conference Archives - Global Wood Packaging Forum

Interpal Conference & Expo Highlights Sustainable Solutions for the Wood Pallet Industry

November 2, 2023/in News, Uncategorized /by Annette Ferri

Alexandria, Virginia – The highly anticipated Interpal Conference 2023, a gathering of the global wood packaging industry every four years, concluded on a high note in Montreal from October 3 to October 5. Co-hosted by the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) and the Canadian Wood Pallet and Container Association (CWPCA), the event marked a significant milestone in the industry’s calendar.

Attracting participation from across the world, Interpal 2023 witnessed an exceptional turnout. There were over 480 participants from 18 countries, including Brazil, China, Malaysia, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Interpal attendees used the opportunity to discuss new ideas and innovations, network, and collaborate on industry best practices, business strategies, and emerging technologies. With sustainability top of mind, the conference focused on further advancing the sustainable practices and technologies that the industry is currently championing.

Attendees kick-started the conference with pallet manufacturing facility tours at Herwood, Interco, and LCN. Participants gained invaluable insights into cutting-edge practices, innovation, and efficient processes.

Educational programming focused on the industry’s sustainability efforts, with sessions including:

Unlocking the Power of Sustainability in the Global Supply Chain
Panel on Carbon, Sustainability & the Wood Pallet Industry
Global Wood Supply and Markets in Transition
Panel on Global Business, Sourcing Challenges & Opportunities
How to Reduce Packaging Waste and Expand Reuse Through Smart Pallet Design
How Global Directives Impact Your Business: Waste Reduction & Increased Circularity
Nature’s Packaging and Packaging From Nature: A Shared Global Approach to Messaging and Resources You Can Use

“The Interpal conference’s success, marked by an exceptional lineup of speakers and enthusiastic attendees, underscores that wood pallets are the linchpin of a sustainable supply chain thanks to the industry’s proactive and innovative leadership,” said Brent McClendon, NWPCA President and CEO. “The critical role of wood pallets in the global supply chain is undeniable, and through events like these, we spotlight the industry’s immense contribution to solving complex environmental challenges as global shipping demands continue to grow.”

The CWPCA and NWPCA thank our Interpal 2023 attendees and participating member companies and look forward to reconvening in 2027.

Contact

Annette Ferri, Vice President of Communications
NWPCA
Email
703.519.6104

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Review/download photos from Interpal 2023. Download PIN: 9765

Global Wood Packaging Forum Meets During Interpal 2023 in Montreal

October 12, 2023/in News /by Hallie Fuchs

Members of the Global Wood Packaging Forum gathered together for an in-person meeting during the renowned Interpal 2023 event in Montreal. This significant convergence saw 22 distinguished participants from a diverse range of countries, marking a momentous occasion for the industry.

After four years of prolonged period of virtual interactions, this year’s face-to-face assembly underscored the industry’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable progress. The event provided an invaluable platform for these experts to exchange insights, discuss challenges, and set the roadmap for the future of wood packaging.

The meeting emphasized the importance of the wood packaging industry in supporting global commerce and its unique challenges, from sustainability concerns to technological advancements. It also fostered international collaboration, laying the foundation for future partnerships and innovations.

Interpal 2023 and the Global Wood Packaging Forum continue their commitment to furthering the industry, offering expert knowledge, tools, and resources. This year’s in-person meeting was not only a testament to the resilience of the community but also a beacon of hope for brighter days ahead for global trade and collaboration.

Second Annual Mexican Wooden Packaging Conference and Expo Resounding Success

September 7, 2023/in News /by Hallie Fuchs

GUADALAJARA, Mexico – September 7, 2023 – The Mexican Chapter of the National Wooden Pallet and Container Association (NWPCA) concluded its Second Annual Mexican Wooden Packaging Conference and Expo from September 5-6 in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. The event was a great success, combining networking, exhibits, and a distinguished speaker program. This year’s conference drew another sell-out crowd. Attendees spanned 13 different countries, a 73% increase from its inaugural event in 2022.

“We are thrilled to repeat such overwhelming success and build off last year’s conference,” said Ing. Fernando César López Bello, Losifra, S.A. de C.V. and president of NWPCA’s Mexican chapter. “The sell-out nature of the event underscores the significance of the wood packaging industry in Mexico and an enthusiastic drive to remain updated and connected.”

Distinguished speakers presented insights on relevant industry matters:

•  Néstor Eduardo García Romero, MBA, director of Planning & Projects, Secretary of Economic Development, State of Jalisco, presented “Nearshoring & Strategic Planning.”

•  Omar Taboada, MBA, investment analysis director, Citibanamex Brokerage House, addressed a “Global Macroeconomic Perspective & Overview of the Mexican Market.”

•  Alejandra Sánchez Ayala, MBA, sustainability officer, C&A Mexico, discussed “Sustainability in the Industry: Why is it Important to Talk About This?”

•  Dr. Brad Gething, vice president of science & technology, NWPCA, delved into “Unlocking Business Value with PDS: Present & Future Features.”

•  A special panel on “Wood Pallets: What the NWPCA is doing on the Global Stage to Advance Industry” featured Hilary Carr, PhD, senior director of Mexico and Latin America, NWPCA; Dr. Brad Gething; and Jason Ortega, JD/MBA, vice president of public affairs.

The conference fostered discussions among industry professionals, allowing a dynamic exchange of ideas, insights, and best practices.

“I commend the Mexican chapter’s dedication, leadership, and vision that made this year’s conference a benchmark event,” said Brent McClendon, president and CEO, NWPCA. “We believe in fostering regional expertise and celebrating the unique identity of the chapter while being part of our global community.”

Next year’s Mexican Wooden Packaging Conference and Expo will be held in Queretaro, Mexico, in September 2024 (exact dates to be determined). For more information about future events, visit www.palletcentral.com/events.

About the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA)
The National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) is the world’s largest organization of wood packaging professionals. NWPCA has over 750 companies that manufacture, repair, and distribute pallets and wood packaging in unit-load solutions or supply products and services to the industry. For more information, visit www.palletcentral.com.

About the Mexico Chapter of the NWPCA
The Capítulo Mexicana was created in March 2022 by NWPCA members in Mexico. The goal is to promote using wooden pallets and packaging as a sustainable and high-value supply chain resource in the Mexican market. For more information, visit www.palletcentral.com/tarimas-de-madera.

Contact
Hilary Carr, PhD
NWPCA
Sr. Director, Mexico and LATAM
Email

NWPCA

NWPCA hosts first-ever Mexico Chapter conference

September 15, 2022/in News /by Hallie Fuchs

MONTERREY, NUEVO LEON, MEXICO September 9, 2022 – The inaugural conference of the Mexico Chapter of the National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) took place from September 7-8 in Monterrey, Mexico. The Conferencia de la Industria Mexicana del Embalaje de Madera brought together more than 130 international business leaders from five countries.

“The formation of the Mexico Chapter (Capítulo) in March 2022 has been a member-based initiative,” said Brent McClendon, president/CEO of NWPCA. “We’re excited to continue to support our Mexican members and become an industry thought leader in Latin America.”

“The Mexican pallet market, valued at over USD 3 billion, is growing with many new business opportunities,” added Hilary Carr, senior director, Mexico & Latin America. “We were thrilled to bring an exciting program to enhance networking and have expert presentations on topics like sustainability, automation or investment opportunities, and the economy.”

Some of the conference speakers included:

José Luis Burnes, business development manager, American Industries Group
Natalya Calleja, vice president, Marketing & Communications, 48forty Solutions
Brad Gething, PhD, vice president, Science & Technology, NWPCA
Jocelyn Moreno Piña, director general, Cámara Nacional de la Industria Maderera
Jeff Williams, president, PRS Group

The Mexico charter was made official during a signing ceremony at the event. Fernando López Bello, Losifra, serves as president of the Capítulo and is an international director of the NWPCA Board, and María José Martínez, El Martillo, is vice president of the Capítulo.

“It’s an honor to serve as the Capítulo President and represent Mexico on the Board of Directors,” added Fernando. “Over the past year, we’ve worked hard to expand our network and connect with wooden packaging manufacturers across Mexico. María José and I will continue to ensure that the Chapter highlights the dynamic nature of our industry by providing the highest level of professional service.”

The Capítulo leadership and staff are full steam ahead with next year’s conference planned for Guadalajara.

Thank you to sponsors: Softwood Export Council, Deacero (Mid-Continent Steel), Freedom Sourcing, GoFast Manufacturing, PRS Group, Southern Mississippi Trading, and Wood-Mizer.

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ABOUT THE NATIONAL WOODEN PALLET & CONTAINER ASSOCIATION (MEXICO CHAPTER)

The Capítulo Mexicana was created in March 2022 by NWPCA members in Mexico. The goal is to promote using wooden pallets and packaging as a sustainable and high-value supply chain resource in the Mexican market.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL WOODEN PALLET & CONTAINER ASSOCIATION

The National Wooden Pallet & Container Association (NWPCA) is the world’s largest organization of wood packaging professionals. NWPCA has over 700 companies that manufacture, repair, and distribute pallets and wood packaging in unit-load solutions or supply products and services to the industry. For more information on NWPCA, visit www.palletcentral.com.

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